Page:Anthology of Japanese Literature.pdf/309

  

"Persons"


 * (The Master, Tarō kaja, and Jirō kaja enter the stage along the Bridge. Tarō kaja and Jirō kaja seat themselves by the Name-Saying Seat. The Master as he introduces himself goes to the Waki’s Pillar.)

I am a gentleman of this vicinity. I plan to go away to the mountains for a few days, and now I shall summon my servants to give them instructions about what to do during my absence.

Tarō kaja, where are you?

Here, Master.


 * (He gets up and goes toward the Master, then bows.)

Call Jirō kaja too.

Yes, Master. Jirō kaja, the master wants you.

I obey.


 * (He also comes forward and bows.)

We are before you, Master.

I have called you because I am going to the mountains for a few days, and I want you both to take good care of the house while I am away.

Your orders will be obeyed, Master, but you have always taken one of us with you on your journeys, and today too

One of us would like to accompany you.

No, that is out of the question. Today I have something important to leave in your care, and both of you must guard it. Wait here.

Very good. Master.


 * (The Master goes to the Flute Pillar where he picks up a round lacquered cask about two feet high. He deposits it in the center of the stage, and returns to his former position.)

This is what is known as busu, a deadly poison. If even a